The straightforward message is simple: Jon Gruden's impressed by how Alabama plays football.

But could it be something more, could this be a subtle recruiting shot at Gruden, Tennessee's top candidate to replace Derek Dooley?

Using Gruden's own words as an endorsement of Alabama?

It's diabolical, downright sinister, it's, it's Nick Saban at his very best -- pretending to praise Gruden while at the same time using his words to advance your position is the perfect move for Nick "the Process" Saban.

So is the first shot in the great Saban vs. Gruden recruiting war?

Or is it merely a sign of how valuable the top recruiting football program in the nation believes that Jon Gruden's seal of approval is?

Either way, it's an interesting move since some have questioned how good of a college recruiter Gruden would be.

Can you imagine the reaction when Jon Gruden shows up at a high school game? When Jon Gruden does an in home visit? Is there any quarterback in the country who wouldn't love to play for Gruden after watching those quarterback camp videos? Is there any player who wouldn't be impressed by Gruden's ability to groom them for a job at the next level? You think parents would trust Gruden to get their sons ready for a pro career?

Plus, he's charismatic as hell.

Imagine that charisma plus a Super Bowl ring.

This guy would kill in recruiting."

Based on sending this mailing to every recruit, Alabama certainly seems to think Gruden's pretty valuable on the recruiting trail.

So do you think it's a coincidence or is Saban taking a shot a potential recruiting rival?